CryptoViki ransomware removal instructions

What is CryptoViki?

CryptoViki is a ransomware-type virus discovered by malware security researcher, Marcelo Rivero. Once infiltrated, CryptoViki encrypts various data and appends the ".viki" extension to the names of all compromised files. For instance, "sample.jpg" is renamed to "sample.jpg.viki". Following successful encryption, CryptoViki changes the desktop wallpaper and creates a text file ("readme.txt"), placing it in each folder containing encrypted files.

The text file contains a message in Russian and English, stating that the files are encrypted and that the victim must contact the criminals responsible via an email address ("cryptoviki@gmail.com") to restore compromised data. It is currently unknown whether CryptoViki uses symmetric or asymmetric cryptography, however, in any case, decryption without a unique key is impossible. Cyber criminals store this key on a remote server and victims are encouraged to pay a ransom to receive it. The cost is currently unconfirmed, however, ransomware developers usually demand the equivalent of between $500 and $1500 in Bitcoins. Despite these demands, never attempt to contact these people or pay any ransom. Research shows that cyber criminals often ignore victims once payments are submitted and there is a high probability that paying will not deliver any positive result - you will probably be scammed. In addition, you will support cyber criminals' malicious businesses. Unfortunately, there are no tools capable of restoring files encrypted by CryptoViki and the only solution is to restore your files/system from a backup.

Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data:

CryptoViki has very similar characteristics to GruxEx, DarkoderCrypt0r, UIWIX, ThunderCrypt, and dozens of other ransomware-type viruses. All encrypt files and make ransoms. The only major differences are size of ransom and type of encryption algorithm (symmetric/asymmetric) used. Cyber criminals proliferate malware by employing spam emails (malicious attachments), third party software download sources (freeware download websites, free file hosting websites, peer-to-peer networks, etc.), fake software update tools, and trojans. Therefore, never open files received from suspicious emails or download software from unofficial sources. Furthermore, keep your installed applications up-to-date and use a legitimate anti-virus/anti-spyware suite. Bear in mind, however, that criminals proliferate malware via fake software updaters. Therefore, using third party tools to update installed applications is very risky. The key to computer safety is caution.

Your files have been encrypted.To decrypt them, You need to write a letterto the email address cryptoviki@gmail.com .Next, you will receive all necessary instructions.Attempts to decipher alone will not lead to anything other than irretrievable loss of information.If you still want to try, make a backup of the files, or in the case they change the decryption will beimpossible under any circumstances.

Windows 10 users: Click the Windows logo and select the Power icon. In the opened menu click "Restart" while holding "Shift" button on your keyboard. In the "choose an option" window click on the "Troubleshoot", next select "Advanced options". In the advanced options menu select "Startup Settings" and click on the "Restart" button. In the following window you should click the "F5" button on your keyboard. This will restart your operating system in safe mode with networking.

Video showing how to start Windows 10 in "Safe Mode with Networking":

Step 2

Log in to the account infected with the CryptoViki virus. Start your Internet browser and download a legitimate anti-spyware program. Update the anti-spyware software and start a full system scan. Remove all entries detected.

If you need assistance removing this ransomware, give us a call 24/7:(866) 983-7844

By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Reimage.

If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking, try performing a System Restore.

Video showing how to remove ransomware virus using "Safe Mode with Command Prompt" and "System Restore":

1. During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until the Windows Advanced Options menu appears, and then select Safe Mode with Command Prompt from the list and press ENTER.

To restore individual files encrypted by this ransomware, try using Windows Previous Versions feature. This method is only effective if the System Restore function was enabled on an infected operating system. Note that some variants of CryptoViki are known to remove Shadow Volume Copies of the files, so this method may not work on all computers.

To restore a file, right-click over it, go into Properties, and select the Previous Versions tab. If the relevant file has a Restore Point, select it and click the "Restore" button.

If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking (or with Command Prompt), boot your computer using a rescue disk. Some variants of ransomware disable Safe Mode making its removal complicated. For this step, you require access to another computer.

To regain control of the files encrypted by CryptoViki, you can also try using a program called Shadow Explorer. More information on how to use this program is available here.

To protect your computer from file encryption ransomware such as this, use reputable antivirus and anti-spyware programs. As an extra protection method, you can use programs called HitmanPro.Alert and EasySync CryptoMonitor, which artificially implant group policy objects into the registry to block rogue programs such as CryptoViki ransomware.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Google+ to stay informed about the latest online security threats.

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A QR code (Quick Response Code) is a machine-readable code which stores URLs and other information. This code can be read using a camera on a smartphone or a tablet. Scan this QR code to have an easy access removal guide of CryptoViki virus on your mobile device.

Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Reimage. By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.